Interviews
Know Your Teacher: ‘Important to know concepts & principles to grasp Economics’
An Apeejay International School teacher in Greater Noida, says that the curriculum is aligned with personal educational beliefs and methods
She has a strong background in Economics and has been working in the schools for the last 10 years. After doing her MCom from CCS University, Meerut, she did her BEd in Commerce and Economics from MDU University, Rohtak. She has also completed the Professional Education -II Group 1 in CA.
“When I shifted to Noida, I came to know about Apeejay from my friend as a good and reputed school in giving quality education and moral values to students,” Sachi Pokhriyal, who teaches classes IX to XII Economics at Apeejay International School in Greater Noida, said.
In a candid interview, she talks about the reasons why she chose Apeejay.
What factors made you choose Apeejay International School, Greater Noida?
There are several reasons. First, Apeejay International School is part of the well-established Apeejay Education Society, which has a history of providing quality education. Second, it has excellent facilities and offers great resources for the teachers like well-equipped classrooms. Three, the work environment is great. Four, there is professional growth. Finally, the school has a curriculum that resonates with the teacher’s own educational beliefs and methods.
How would you describe the role of economics in a student’s daily life?
It helps students understand the fundamental principles of decision-making. It provides students with the tools to create and manage budgets. Students go to the market. Economics helps them comprehend market dynamics. The subject introduces the concept of opportunity cost, which refers to the value of the next best alternative foregone when a choice is made.
Economics provides a framework to analyse and understand various social, political, and economic issues. It also helps students in making career choices based on their interests, skills, and market demand.
What are the key principles or concepts that students should understand to grasp the fundamentals of economics?
To grasp the fundamentals of economics, students should understand several key principles and concepts. First, is scarcity. It highlights the need to make choices and allocate resources efficiently. Second, students should understand the interaction between supply and demand determines prices and quantities in markets. Three, students must also understand what market equilibrium is, what elasticity is, the importance of opportunity cost, and what is comparative advantage.
How do you make the class interactive?
Discussion-based activities foster open conversations and debates among students. Incorporating practical experiments allows students to actively engage with the subject matter. I present real-world problems or case studies that require students to apply their knowledge and critical thinking skills. Using videos, images, and interactive online tools helps cater to different learning styles and enhance understanding. Gamification, technology integration like interactive whiteboards, role-playing and simulations, peer teaching, collaborative projects, continuous feedback, and assessments, and incorporating real-world connections also promote active engagement and learning.
What are the various methods to help underachievers?
Helping underachievers requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account their individual needs and challenges. An Individualised Education Plan is developed to address specific learning needs. I have implemented varied instructional strategies and materials to cater to diverse learning styles and abilities within the classroom. I try to pair underachievers with high-achieving peers. I also set realistic and achievable goals and celebrate their achievements. Counseling can help them develop confidence. Collaborating with parents or guardians is vital for supporting underachievers.
How is experiential learning helping students?
Experiential learning is a transformative approach that empowers students to become active learners, critical thinkers, effective communicators, and well-rounded individuals, preparing them for future academic and professional endeavours.
It is a powerful educational approach that emphasises hands-on experiences and active participation to enhance student learning. It offers students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in practical, real-world contexts, fostering deeper understanding, skill development, and personal growth.
